Had lower back surgery for L5 in 1980. Age 33. Was deadlifting over 400 at light 148.

Mine was from a series of different actions. Slipping on a wet outfield, Holding drywall over my head to do a ceiling, pushing a car out of a ditch and continuing to lift (lighter). I had experienced nerve problems in my right leg about 2 years before this.

spent a weekend on the floor, couldn't sleep, walk, even get on my knees to go to the bathroom. Went to ER was admitted to hospital, Doctor wanted to keep me in traction and do therphy for a week then see a specialist (Surgeon) I opted to see the surgeon right away. Had surgery that Friday. Hospital for 5 days, off work for 6 weeks. Had no therphy only to walk as I could.

I worked slowly back into lifting and doing back strengthing exercises. Got back on platform 3 years after surgery. Wasn't going to rush it. Was still able to do over 400 deadlift and squat increased and Bench went way up.

Key is to get a great surgeon and work slowly back listening to your body. It will tell you when to stop, even if it is during a warm up set. Everyone is different so listen to your body and don't listen to EGO. I never tried to impress anyone or cares what they thought about my lifts, I only have to be happy with my self. It is my 57th year of competition at age 71.

Good luck George. Let me know how things work out. Maybe we will be in a meet together.